A young mum who died saving her young daughter’s life was hailed a hero by her heartbroken family.

Olivia Dunne was killed while out strolling with five-month-old Aoibhe when an out-of-control jeep mounted the pavement and struck her and the buggy.

The 31-year-old – who will be laid to rest on Monday – was called “courageous” for her selfless act which saved the tot’s life.

It is understood the brave woman pushed her daughter’s buggy out of the car’s path, saving her from death or more serious injury.

Devastated cousin Thomas Clinton told the Irish Sunday Mirror: “Olivia was a very courageous woman. The family are spending time together after what has happened.”

Primary school teacher Olivia, from Balbriggan, Co Dublin, had been out walking little Aoibhe when her life was cut short.

She had been on maternity leave after giving birth to her first child last Autumn.

The little girl suffered two broken legs and is being treated at Temple Street Children’s Hospital.

She is expected to face weeks of medical treatment following the tragic accident.

Olivia’s husband Ciaran works as a greenskeeper at nearby Balbriggan Golf Club.

It is understood he ran to the site of the incident on Friday to discover its horrific aftermath.

His wife was pronounced dead at the scene.

Flowers and messages of sympathy at the scene in Balbriggan, Co Dublin, where Olivia Dunne was killed (Photo: Photocall Ireland)

Local priest, Fr Eugene Taaffe told the Irish Sunday Mirror he had been with the family on several occasions since Olivia’s tragic death.

Ciaran’s family, including mother and father Margaret and Seamus Clinton, brother Derek, sisters Marguerite and Caroline, father-in-law and mother-in-law Heather and Eddie are being comforted by other relations and friends.

He said: “The family are struggling but they are doing their best to cope with this together.

“The family are being surrounded by relatives and friends.”

The couple married only two years ago in July 2012 and it is understood they moved into the Balrothery area shortly after their marriage.

Olivia will be laid to rest tomorrow at Balrothery cemetry following a funeral mass at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Balbriggan.

Gardai are continuing to investigate the fatal crash which happened on the main Dublin Road into Balbriggan.

The driver of the blue SsangYong vehicle was also treated in hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Local councillor Monica Hardford said the community was reeling from the tragedy.

She said: “It is an absolutely terrible thing to have happened. The whole area is shellshocked by it.”

Witnesses are being urged to call Balbriggan Garda station on 01 8412202 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800666111.